Can I Eat McDonald's with Gout? What You Need to Know

December 1, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 9 million adults in the U.S. have gout, a painful form of inflammatory arthritis. The condition is caused by high levels of uric acid, often influenced by diet, making the question 'Can I eat McDonald's with gout?' a common concern for many.

Quick Summary

Fast food like McDonald's contains ingredients that can trigger gout flares due to high purine and fructose content, as well as unhealthy fats. Limiting or avoiding high-risk menu items and making healthier substitutions is key to managing symptoms effectively.

Key Points

Red Meat and Sugary Drinks are High-Risk: The beef burgers and high-fructose beverages at McDonald's are significant triggers for gout due to their high purine and sugar content.
Limit Processed and Fried Foods: Fried items like Chicken McNuggets and fries contain unhealthy fats and processed ingredients that can increase gout inflammation.
Choose Healthier Alternatives: Stick to grilled chicken sandwiches or salads with light dressing, and always choose water over soda or sweetened drinks.
Portion Control and Frequency Matter: While the occasional, cautious visit might be okay, a regular habit of eating fast food can significantly increase your risk of gout attacks.
Hydration is Crucial: Drinking plenty of water is one of the best ways to help your kidneys flush excess uric acid from your body.

Understanding Gout and Your Diet

Gout attacks occur when urate crystals, formed from excess uric acid, build up in the joints, causing sudden and severe pain and swelling. The body produces uric acid from the breakdown of purines, substances naturally found in many foods. Fast food, including McDonald's, often features ingredients that are known to be high in purines, added sugars (especially high-fructose corn syrup), and unhealthy fats—all of which can contribute to elevated uric acid levels. While the occasional indulgence may not cause an immediate flare-up, a regular habit of consuming such foods can increase risk over time.

High-Risk McDonald's Menu Items for Gout Sufferers

Many popular McDonald's items contain ingredients that are known to be problematic for those with gout. This includes items high in red meat, sugary drinks, and fried foods. For instance, a Big Mac or a Quarter Pounder contain a significant amount of red meat. While not as high in purines as organ meats, large portions of beef should still be limited. Similarly, the fries are fried in oil and are a source of refined carbohydrates, which are not recommended.

The Problem with Sugary Drinks

One of the most significant risks for gout at any fast-food restaurant is the selection of beverages. Sodas and other sugary drinks are high in fructose, which the body breaks down into purines, directly raising uric acid levels. A study found that men who drank two or more sugary sodas a day had an 85% higher risk of a gout attack. McDonald's soft drinks, shakes, and other sweetened beverages should therefore be largely avoided.

Comparing McDonald's Menu Options for Gout


Menu Item	Risk Factor	Why It's a Concern	Better Alternative
Big Mac / Quarter Pounder	High Red Meat, Sodium	Red meat should be limited; high sodium can increase gout risk.	Plain grilled chicken sandwich with limited condiments.
Chicken McNuggets	Processed Food, Fried	Processed and fried foods are high in unhealthy fats and can increase gout inflammation.	Order grilled options or a salad (with low-fat dressing).
French Fries	Refined Carbs, Fried	Refined carbohydrates and fried foods are linked to higher gout risk.	Avoid entirely. Choose a simple side salad if possible.
Sugary Soda / Shakes	High Fructose Corn Syrup	Fructose metabolizes into uric acid and directly raises levels.	Stick to water, unsweetened iced tea, or black coffee.
Filet-O-Fish	Moderate Purines	While fish can be part of a gout diet in moderation, some types and processed forms have moderate purines.	Choose a grilled chicken item instead, or limit intake severely.

Making Healthier Choices at McDonald's

Navigating the menu with gout can feel challenging, but it is not impossible. The key is to prioritize low-purine and low-sugar items while keeping portion sizes in check. Here are some strategies:

Prioritize Grilled Options: A simple grilled chicken sandwich or a salad with grilled chicken are generally better choices than fried or red meat-based burgers. Be mindful of sauces and dressings, as they can contain hidden sugars and high sodium levels.
Go for Low-Fat Dairy: While some dairy products are fine in moderation, choosing low-fat milk or yogurt-based items can help, as some research suggests they might lower uric acid levels. However, sugary items like McFlurrys and sundaes are not recommended.
Hydrate with Water: Make water your go-to beverage. Staying well-hydrated helps your kidneys flush out excess uric acid from your system.
Modify Your Order: Don't be afraid to customize your meal. Ask for no cheese on burgers, choose a small portion size, or skip the soda and fries entirely. Small changes can have a significant impact.

Lifestyle and Medication are Key

Remember, diet is just one part of managing gout. Lifestyle factors, such as maintaining a healthy weight and staying active, are also crucial. Many people with gout require medication to effectively control their uric acid levels, and diet alone is rarely enough. Consult with your doctor to create a comprehensive plan that includes dietary modifications, medication, and exercise.

Conclusion: Can You Enjoy McDonald's with Gout?

While a strict low-purine diet suggests avoiding fast food, the reality is that an occasional, mindful visit to McDonald's is possible for people with gout. It requires careful navigation of the menu to avoid the highest-risk items. Focus on grilled chicken, salads, and water, while strictly limiting red meat, fried foods, and sugary drinks. A Western-style diet, of which fast food is a significant part, is associated with a higher risk of gout attacks, so the overall frequency and choices are what truly matter. The best approach is always moderation and making smart substitutions to minimize your risk of a painful flare-up.

For more information on dietary management of gout, the Arthritis Foundation offers helpful resources: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/nutrition/healthy-eating/foods-to-avoid-for-gout.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should limit or avoid large portions of red meat like those in McDonald's burgers. If you choose to eat one occasionally, consider a smaller size and make healthier choices for the rest of your meal to offset the risk.

Yes, McDonald's fries are not recommended for those with gout. They are a fried food and a source of refined carbohydrates, which are associated with a higher risk of gout attacks.

Water is the best option. You should avoid sugary sodas, shakes, and other sweetened beverages, which are high in fructose and can directly increase uric acid levels.

While some fish can be consumed in moderation, the Filet-O-Fish is a processed and fried seafood item. It's not a ideal choice, and a grilled chicken sandwich would be a safer, lower-purine alternative.

No, while diet is an important management tool, it is not a cure. Many people with gout require medication in addition to dietary changes to effectively control their uric acid levels and prevent attacks.

Low-fat dairy products, like skim milk, have been suggested to help lower uric acid levels. However, avoid any high-sugar dairy items like McFlurrys or sundaes which contain high fructose corn syrup.

The combination of high-purine red meats, fructose-heavy sugary drinks, and processed fried foods presents the biggest risk. These items collectively contribute to a higher risk of raising uric acid and triggering a flare.